Monday afternoon, we set out to a stunning ski village an hour and a half out of Colorado, Breckenridge. I'd been in Breckenridge 6 weeks before and was comfortable with the altitude there.

3 am Tuesday, a magnificent morning, I donned my Merrells - my favourite Erie Boots, and was dropped off at the trailhead by a very sleepy cousin, Jess. It was time to climb Mount Quandary 4,348m / 14,265feet. I was buzzing with excitement - backpack on, sunglasses and hat in place. It was time.

I find it very difficult to describe the absolute joy I feel when I start every expedition. I know it is going to be hard, I know breathing is going to be extremely difficult, and I also know I'm going to hurt along the way (even if I don't have a clumsy "Jenni" accident 🤣). I also know at this point that I'm doing something to add value to my life - so that I can say to myself "I didn't let the days just pass", "I took advantage of every opportunity that came my way", "and then I went out and created more opportunities"!

Climbing mountains is so similar to life - there are most certainly ups and downs, there are tears and laughs, and on the whole, you will meet the most incredible people.

High altitude does require careful planning! Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate - before, during and after, this is rule number 1. Along with your favourite rehydration/electrolyte powders. A great pair of Merrells with very good traction and waterproof technology is highly recommended - added to this, I always go with at least 2 extra pairs of socks (Fav footwear for the Mountains: Erie Boots - mine are a size bigger than my trail shoes, padded with socks). A hat, sunglasses and sunblock are non-negotiable.

Simple, easy-to-eat food - peanut butter-based anything for the win, as well as something salty. Mountain weather will do what mountain weather wants, and the weather will change in a heartbeat - warm waterproof gear, including a buff and gloves, should be packed. These are all on my backpack list - I always forget something, and through my experiences, I've been lucky to meet amazing peeps who have had my back.

Lastly, don't forget your torch, pack the night before and DON'T hit the snooze button!